(Newser)
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An effigy of Sarah Palin hanging from a noose outside a West Hollywood house has triggered a community furor, reports the Los Angeles Times. The effigy is part of a grim Halloween display which also shows a John McCain mannequin surrounded by flames and skeletons. Complaints calling the display a hate crime have been phoned in to the local sheriff, who said the effigy doesn't meet the criteria for such a crime, though it may violate good "taste."

"While these residents have the legal right to display McCain and Palin in effigy, I strongly oppose political speech that references violence," said West Hollywood's mayor. "I urge them to find more constructive ways to express their opinion." The owner of the house, which has drawn packs of photo-snapping onlookers, defended the display. "It's Halloween," he said. "It's time to be scary."